Valley Gives Day

Forbes Library raised $7,905 from 134 generous donors on Valley Gives Day 2017. This exceeded the library’s matching challenge grant of $6,000 from the Friends of Forbes Library. The library was the lucky winner of a $500 “golden ticket” as well, bringing the total for the day to $14,405.

“We are so touched by the outpouring of generosity. The funds raised are so gratefully appreciated and will be used to provide free educational and life-enriching programs for patrons of all ages,” said Lisa Downing, Library Director. Programming at Forbes Library is an integral part of the library’s mission which serves to support the civic, intellectual, and cultural pursuits of the community. Last year over 20,000 people attended a program at the library. “Our programs bring the community together and encourage curiosity, free inquiry and lifelong learning for all ages and income levels. The funds raised on Valley Gives Day will support a year’s worth of amazing free programs and we couldn’t be more delighted,” said Downing.

[I love the library because of] the variety of materials available, Mango (languages), and the breadth of knowledge that the staff possesses (as well as a good measure of friendly helpfulness). The programs at Forbes Library are wonderful with Yoga, lectures, discussion groups, and events. Forbes is also a lovely building, a quiet place to work and learn. I love my library!!!

[Libraries like the Forbes] are a mecca for people without the means to purchase books, or read newspapers and magazines, or use a computer with internet access. They provide programs that enrich our lives. Our libraries are our national treasures, places to learn and explore and imagine possibilities. They help us grow as individuals and inspire creation and the possibility of finding solutions to difficult problems.

Libraries contribute heavily to the community they live in forming the base for many groups and events. The library is an essential part of any thriving community.

Forbes Library, the public library for Northampton, Massachusetts, serves as a community meeting place in which curiosity, free inquiry, and lifelong learning are supported and nurtured.

The library is open to everyone. Forbes Library is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and donations are tax deductible.